Defense apparently bracing for Francois to replace Smith

While coach Jim Harbaugh says Justin Smith’s arm injury will take a couple more days to evaulate, linebacker Patrick Willis intimated that the defense is counting on Ricky Jean Francois to do his best to replace Smith for Sunday night’s game at Seattle.

“Injuries happen and that offers opportunities for other guys to step up and contribute,” Willis said. “And Ricky Jean is that guy for us right now. I have complete confidence in him. We’re counting on him to come in and make strides for us, and I think he will.”

Wearing no sign of an arm brace, Smith appeared in his game jersey like the rest of his teammates as they walked off the field after Wednesday morning’s walk-through session. The 49ers will disclose Smith’s ammount of participation following the afternoon practice, which begins at 1:35 p.m.

Harbaugh said Smith will play “if it’s humanly possible. We’ll see how he feels today and tomorrow.”

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“No doubt a player such as Justin can’t be replaced,” Willis said. “You can’t bring in another guy and he’ll do what Justin does. He’s a big part of the defense.”

Smith underwent an MRI on what’s believed to be his left-elbow injury on Monday. He’s in line to make his 186th consecutive regular-season start Sunday.

Jean Francois, a fourth-year veteran out of LSU, has three career starts, including one this season in place of nose tackle Isaac Sopoaga on Sept. 30 against the New York Jets. Jean Francois had a fourth-quarter sack in relief of Smith during Sunday night’s 41-34 win at New England.